An engine shed near Market Bosworth’s preserved Battlefield Line could be converted into a visitor centre for the Shackerstone to Shenton steam railway.

Plans to turn the disused goods shed into a tourist attraction are included in a scheme by Sedgemere Developments to build 57 new homes on land off Station Road in the town.

The scheme also offers the provision of 10 allotments, which were laid out to the east of the Battlefield Line last October.

Planning permission was granted for the work in 2012 but behind-the-scenes negotiations need to be tied up with Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council to allow the full development to proceed.

It is set to feature 17 two-bedroom homes, 21 three-bedroom homes and 19 four-or-more bedroom homes in a mix of detached, semi-detached, terrace and cottage styles.

The application proposed to “convert and refurbish” a Victorian engine shed which is currently used for storage and display for the Battlefield Line.

A report to the borough council’s planning committee in 2012 said: “The core strategy defines the tourism themes of the borough and this is considered to be consistent with the intentions of the Bosworth Battlefield.

“The applicant proposes to convert an existing former goods shed adjacent to the Battlefield Line.

“The line links Shackerstone Station with Shenton Station and is considered an important contribution to the tourism provision of the borough.

“In addition, the conversion will result in additional facilities for tourism in the area which is likely to have economic benefits with a positive knock-on effect on existing community services and facilities.”